What to Catch in Late Summer on the Hammock Coast

The saltwater marshes of the Hammock Coast offer pristine coast, with more 30 miles of uninhabited shoreline where anglers can hook a big one. 

In late summer, you’ve hit one of the best seasons for fishing these waters. Mahi Mahi, cobia, Spanish mackerel, tarpon and red drum are all biting through the end of August. Fishing for red drum is a favorite for anglers, and this species is in abundance during spring and summer. They take the bait, making them easy to catch. They also put up a fight, which makes them fun to reel in.

If you bring your own gear - and have a South Carolina fishing license - fish from a local pier, jetties or the beach. When the tide is low, use a flounder rig and troll the creek. At high tide, use live bait in the grass along the shore. When surf fishing, use heavy tackle, and live bait such as shrimp or minnows. Cut bait works, too. For reds and speckled trout, fish with a spinning lure. 

Some of our favorite spots to fish include the North Causeway Bridge on Pawleys Island, Veterans Pier at the Marshwalk and the jetty at Huntington Beach State Park.

Or book a charter. 

Our partner, Harvest Moon Fishing Charter, offers family-friendly fishing adventures on Winyah Bay, out of Georgetown. Harvest Moon offers inshore and nearshore trips, targeting redfish, trout, tarpon, and many other species. With a fishing charter, you don’t have to worry about obtaining a fishing license, it is included in the trip. They also provide all fishing supplies, as well as coolers, ice and bottled water.

It’s easy to get a line in the water on the Hammock Coast. You can even stay in an amazing property that has access to the creek and the Atlantic Ocean.